Major Victory Opens New Path for Survivors to Hold Institutions Accountable

In a decisive move for survivor rights, the New York City Council overwhelmingly approved legislation to restore sex abuse survivors' ability to bring civil claims under city law and reopen a one-year "lookback" window for people whose cases were dismissed after a restrictive court ruling earlier this year.

Historic Vote Paves Way for Accountability

Intro 1297, which had more than 41 co-sponsors and passed on Nov. 25 with 48 votes in the affirmative, will clarify that survivors may bring claims under City's Gender-Motivated Violence Act (GMVA) not only against individual abusers but also against institutions that enabled sexual violence, even when the abuse occurred decades ago.

This represents a significant expansion of survivors.

Understanding the GMVA

The City Council first enacted the GMVA in 2000 to allow civil lawsuits against people who committed gender-motivated violence. In 2022, the law was revised to hold accountable those who played a role in facilitating abuse.

This latest amendment addresses gaps in the law that previously limited survivors' ability to seek justice against institutional actors.

Important Deadlines

The legislation states that claims must be filed within 18 months of the law's effective date. Those who filed claims between March 1, 2023, and March 1, 2025, may amend or refile their cases to include a cause of action under the new provision.

Potential for Significant Recovery

This law would allow survivors and victims of sexual assaults to seek significant monetary damages from individuals and corporations responsible for those acts. The New York State Trial Lawyers Association, which has been a consistent advocate for survivors in Albany, called the Council's action "a major step toward accountability, healing, and systemic reform."

We're Here to Help

If you were a victim of sexual assault in New York City, please contact Vandamme Law Firm at 212-641-0613. You may be entitled to a significant recovery.

Our experienced legal team understands the sensitivity and complexity of these cases. We are committed to fighting for survivors' rights and holding both individual perpetrators and enabling institutions accountable. All consultations are confidential.